George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Frederick (“Fred”) Jack Van Koughnett’s journey is a powerful reflection of perseverance, integrity, and the life-changing impact of skilled trades education. As a mature student in the early 1970s, Fred came to George Brown College seeking new direction and opportunity. He began in the Academic Upgrading Program (AS43-T4) before completing the Electronics Program (EL41) in 1973—a pivotal moment that his family says “changed his life.”
According to his younger brother, Kevin Van Koughnett, George Brown was the doorway to the future Fred had been searching for. After graduating, he joined Hobart Canada in Toronto and later transferred to Timmins, where he built a small but indispensable appliance repair business.
In Timmins — a place where, as Kevin notes, “anonymity does not exist” — Fred became known for work done with quiet competence and unembellished honesty. His reputation travelled faster than any advertisement. He repaired what others could not, learned each new generation of electronics as it came, and treated customers with the straightforward decency that small communities both recognize and remember.
One local resident wrote in an online tribute:
“We really need more ‘Freds’ in our communities — people who care about doing a good job and about helping people.”
A Brother’s Tribute
Kevin describes his brother’s life as a reminder that success comes in many forms — not only in titles or income, but in the steadiness with which one serves others.
“The skills he learned at George Brown gave him a new start,” Kevin shared. “They shaped the career that allowed him to support his family and his community. I hope his story encourages other mature students to cast their net wide — their skills are needed across Canada.”
A Scholarship That Extends His Impact: Frederick Jack Van Koughnett Memorial Scholarship
To honour this legacy, Kevin has established the Frederick Jack Van Koughnett Memorial Scholarship, which will support a mature student in the T901 Electronics Technician program — the closest contemporary equivalent to Fred’s studies. The award will be offered beginning this Winter term.
Carmel Drumgoole, Manager of Alumni Relations and Engagement, highlighted the significance of this gift:
“Kevin’s tribute to his brother is deeply moving. Fred’s story demonstrates how education can open doors to new possibilities and how skilled trades graduates strengthen communities across the province. We are honoured to help carry his legacy forward.”
Continuing the Work He Began
More than fifty years after Fred first walked through George Brown’s doors, his story will now help another student step through their own — someone seeking a new start, a meaningful career, and a chance to make a difference.
Inspired to Give Back?
If you are an alumnus, community member, or supporter who feels moved to help another student build a new future, we would be delighted to connect.
To learn more about establishing a scholarship, creating a memorial award, or supporting programs at George Brown Polytechnic, please visit George Brown College Foundation or contact Tenzin Noryang, Senior Development Officer, at tenzin.noryang@georgebrown.ca.